Climate experts are predicting a drier than average winter for the region, according to the Bureau of Meteorology climate and rainfall outlooks released last week.

Climate experts are predicting a drier than average winter for the region, according to the Bureau of Meteorology climate and rainfall outlooks released last week.

The median rainfall for the area for July to September is 120mm, with the bureau predicting rainfall above that is unlikely.

It says there is a 60 per cent chance of recording at least 50mm, and a 46 per cent chance of at least 100mm falling in the next three months.

The bureau predicts July to September rainfall is likely to be below average in south-east Australia.

It says a drier than average July is likely over eastern NSW, but elsewhere there is roughly equal chances of a wetter or drier month.

Although the region has experienced a very frosty and chilly start to winter, the outlook indicates the region will be heading for a warmer winter.

‘‘July to September daytime and night-time temperatures are likely to be warmer than average for most of Australia. Chances are highest in the south-east and south-west, where there is a greater than 80 per cent chance of warmer than average days and nights,’’ the outlook said.

‘‘While nights are likely to be warmer on average, very cold nights also remain likely during periods of high pressure and clear skies — watch local forecasts and warnings.

‘‘Chances of warmer days and nights are highest in the south-west, south-east and north-east, where there is a greater than 80 per cent chance of warmer than average days and nights.’’

The Bureau of Meteorology said the dry weather was due to high pressure ridges blocking most of the fronts from developing in the state, especially in northern Victoria.